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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The 136-Mile-Long Lazy River In Maine Where You’ll Find Us All Summer Long

Published Jul 8, 2024

Written by 

Will Suphan

One thing that we love to do during the summer is to float down a lazy river in Maine. Floating down the river with some beverages and buddies is always a great way to spend a warm day and we thankfully have so many rivers to choose from. One of the best of them is the Saco River in Maine. Get your innertubes ready, and let’s hit the river!

The Saco River is a beautiful 136-mile-long river that starts in New Hampshire and flows to Saco Bay in the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a favorite for people who love to bring a kayak, canoe, or innertube and lazily float down the river during the summer.

Aerial view of a lush green landscape with a winding river and a serene lake under a clear blue sky.
Jessee Roussell/Google

Much of the river is mild, slow, and shallow, making for a relaxing and enjoyable float and there are several put-in spots along the way so that you can float for an hour or two or all day if you like.

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A serene river scene with kayakers paddling, surrounded by lush green trees and a sandy bank in the background.
Ralph Becker/Google

Since the river is so long, many people get a group together and make a two or three-day excursion of it, stopping to camp at one of the many sandy beaches along the banks of the Saco River.

Canoes and kayaks lined up on a sandy riverbank, with tents and trees in the background under a blue sky.
Jesse Roussell/Google

The views are spectacular along the way and it’s such a great way to spend quality time with family and friends.

A serene river scene with clear blue water, lush green trees, and a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Svetlana Egorova/Google

You may even be joined by local wildlife. Our fine feathered friends love a good float along the river just as much as we do!

A group of ducks with distinctive red heads swims in a calm, green-tinted river surrounded by lush vegetation.
Amy Doucette/Google

Many people have their own tubes so they are primed and ready when the whim hits to float the river. For those who don’t, there are several rental companies throughout the state to rent tubes and kayaks from, and many offer tours, like Saco River Canoe & Kayak and On the Saco.

A serene river scene with kayakers, lush greenery, and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
Gail Robinson/Google

Just imagine, a view like this could be all yours this summer. What a way to let the stress of regular working life fade away and have a smile on your face the whole day through.

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A group of people in canoes and kayaks paddling down a calm river surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies.
Jessee Roussell/Google

The sunrises and sunsets on the river are something special. What a way to both start and end a day of floating down the Saco River in a tube, canoe, or kayak. However you do it, it’s quite a treat.

A serene river scene at sunset, with colorful skies reflecting on the water and rocky shores surrounded by trees.
The DeCilla Show/Google

Have you ever floated along the Saco River in Maine? Do you have any other favorite lazy rivers in Maine for a summer day? Let us know about your favorite places and experiences in the comments. If you’re looking for more fun on a lazy river in Maine, stock up on sunscreen and check out the Kennebec River:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/maine/longest-float-trips-me/

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Most Remote Lake In Maine Is Also The Most Peaceful

Cobbosseecontee Lake in Maine offers a peaceful and remote retreat with beautiful scenery, a unique lighthouse, and excellent fishing opportunities.

Updated Aug 12, 2024

Written by 

Chris Dodge

There is nothing more peaceful than sitting on the edge of a lake. That sound of the water gently lapping the shore, the distant sound of loons calling. The gentle breeze keeps the air cooler when the sun is beating down. There is nothing quite like lake life. Cobbosseecontee Lake in Maine, better known as Cobbossee, is just what you need to find a peaceful spot to relax. Let’s explore the most remote lake in Maine and all its beauty.

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Have you been searching for the "best lakes near me?" Cobbossee is remote but also very close to civilization.

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ChrisGoldNY/ Flickr

You won't be too far away if you need anything, but when you are on the lake, you will feel like you're a million miles away. The water is peaceful and calm, and chances are, you will not see a single soul around. And who wouldn't want to spend time at one of the most peaceful lakes in Maine?

One of the more surprising facts about Cobbossee is the lighthouse.

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I, Lmichaud/ Wikipedia

Ladies Delight Light is Maine’s only lake island lighthouse. Only accessible by boat, this beautiful white citadel sits upon its island as if it was plucked from the coast and brought to the lake. There is a small island to explore, and the views are incredible.

This lake is also known nationally for its aggressive and big Largemouth Bass.

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Jonathunder / Wikipedia

Fishing is always good on the lake and many people will tell you the stories of what is out there for fish lurking under the water. If you choose to go swimming, also note that the Largemouth Bass are not the only aggressive creatures -- snapping turtles like to make a quick snack of unsuspecting swimmers.

There are many great places to stay on and around the lake.

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Nature Lovers Paradise Your Own Island/ vrbo

Places to stay like this cabin on its own private island will really get you out in nature and enjoy this beautiful and peaceful spot. Many other cabins are also on this huge lake that borders five different small Maine towns: Litchfield, Manchester, Monmouth, West Gardiner, and Winthrop.

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As activities wind down and the evening comes to a close, the sunsets are brilliant.

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ChrisGoldNY/Flickr

Once the painted colors in the sky fade away, you are met with the most amazing display of stars in the night sky. It’s just another perk of being on this peaceful lake. Spend one day here and you'll agree that it's one of the best lakes in Maine!

Here’s a short video by YouTuber Ken Ottaviano featuring stunning aerial views of Cobbosseecontee Lake, the most remote lake in Maine.

https://youtu.be/jkGGvqUi5w4

So whatever town you are nearest to, make the trip to Cobbosseecontee Lake in Maine and you will be pleasantly surprised by how peaceful it really can be. After all, it's the most remote lake in Maine!

Do you enjoy kayaking on lakes as much as I do? Bring a portable kayak like the Oru Kayak with you everywhere you go!

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

There’s A Lake In Maine That Looks Just Like China Lake, But Hardly Anyone Knows It Exists

Jamie’s Pond in Manchester, Maine, offers a tranquil and scenic spot for hiking and relaxation.

Updated Aug 11, 2024

Written by 

Chris Dodge

In Maine, we have a massive coastline and we love our rocky shores and sandy beaches. But did you know that there are numerous fresh bodies of water around the state? So, how many lakes does Maine have? There are actually over 6,000 lakes and ponds, so we have no shortage of beautiful waters to enjoy in the Pine Tree State. There is a little-known pond that is absolutely beautiful and does strike a resemblance to another nearby lake. Jamie’s Pond in Manchester is one of the best lakes in Maine as well as the place to be for a relaxing stroll through the woods and around a peaceful pond.

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Jamie’s Pond is like a hidden oasis in the woods. The surrounding wilderness area makes the entire trail and shoreline a very peaceful and pleasant place to explore. Like most lakes and ponds in Maine, they do look similar but we think that it does look like China Lake.

A serene lake surrounded by lush trees under a clear blue sky, reflecting the vibrant colors of nature.
Felipe Centellas/ Alltrails

This is China Lake, one of the prettiest lakes in Maine, (pictured below) and with the evergreens lining the lake they can kind of look similar. Many other lakes in our state look similar as well and we think that's great. When something looks this good why change it? Where people will rent cabins on China Lake, Jamie’s Pond is used very differently.

A serene lake view with calm water, surrounded by green trees and a clear blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Kim Jackson/ Google

Jamie’s Pond sits on a plot of land designated for wildlife management that is over 800 acres. So you will have plenty of space where you can explore and enjoy in quiet and solitude.

A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees under a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds. Rocks and grass line the shore.
Tatum Lade/ Alltrails

You can take a couple of trails through the woods where you can walk along the shore and then take off into the woods. The area is open year-round; however, in the colder months, they do close the road leading down to the pond. You can still park outside and walk down which allows you to enjoy the quiet and beautiful scenery for longer.

A serene lake scene with sunlight reflecting on the water, surrounded by trees and a rocky shoreline.
Toni Day/ Alltrails

As you traverse through the woods you will find well-maintained trails with bridges and signs. This is a great place to go to get away from it all because it is unlikely you will see other people while hiking.

A serene forest scene with tall trees, scattered rocks, and a glimpse of water in the background.
Richard Austin/ Alltrails

The pond itself is simply gorgeous and the perfect spot to just sit. Listening to the sounds around you like the soft lapping of the water on the shore and the birds chirping overhead can refuel you and relax you.

A tranquil lake scene with rocky shorelines, surrounded by trees under a cloudy sky.
Courtesy of Sarah Dodge

Jamie’s Pond in Manchester, Maine, may be similar to other lakes but it also is one of a kind. This tranquil pond is the perfect place to just get away from it all, go for a hike in the woods, and take in the beautiful scenery. We think that this pond has a certain attraction to it and you can even say it's a little bit romantic. What do you think are the best lakes in Maine? Let us know.

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And check out this video from Adventuring in the Moment to see the pond in the early springtime.

https://youtu.be/MAuP9SYR-fE

You may also want to check out this magical trail near Jamie’s Pond called Vaughan Woods.

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